| One of my clients wrote to me saying she just | | | | Your muscles need to get warm up to prevent |
| got back from a session with her medical doctor | | | | injuries. It is advisable to start out slow as a |
| for an auto-immune problem that flares ever so | | | | warm-up, pick up the pace in the middle of your |
| often. Her doctor said that "walking is the perfect | | | | walk and slow down toward the end for the |
| exercise for her". She wanted to know how to | | | | cool-down. So, it goes like this: walk slow, speed |
| start a walking program. You would assume | | | | up and then slow down. |
| people would just get up, go outdoors and walk | | | | Always wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing if |
| and that is not always true. Or, their first walk it | | | | you are walking in the heat. Wearing breathable |
| is a bad experience for them and they want to | | | | fabrics will help you to walk longer. Do your |
| quit. Is there a way to get started effectively so | | | | research on the proper clothing when walking in |
| it is a healthy experience and a fun experience? | | | | the rain or snow. |
| The answer is "yes". | | | | Be smart with your selection of walking paths. It |
| Do not start out thinking you are going to walk a | | | | is best to walk where other people are for your |
| couple of miles the very first time. It is important | | | | safety. Carry a cell phone, in case you need help. |
| to start with a small goal of 15 to 20 minutes per | | | | Bring a friend, walk a dog, or wear headphones |
| day. Add a few minutes each day, and your total | | | | and listen to your favorite music. If you wear |
| time will increase before you know it. | | | | headphones, make sure you keep the level low |
| I know we all have our favorite, comfortable | | | | enough so you can be aware of what is |
| tennis shoes; however it is important that you | | | | happening around you. |
| invest in good walking shoes. Do not rely on | | | | Track your progress by logging your steps, |
| cheap sneakers or other shoes not designed for | | | | mileage, or time walked. |
| this purpose. Good walking/running shoes provide | | | | Today is the time to get starting walking. You |
| the support your feet needs. Do not leave home | | | | must get up, open your front door and starting |
| without a couple of Band-Aids, just in case you | | | | your walking activity with the commitment of |
| get a blister. | | | | building a healthier body. |